Roccastrada
Welcome to Roccastrada: a brief introduction
Hello everyone! Have you ever been to Roccastrada? If the answer is no, this is your opportunity to get to know this beautiful municipality in the province of Grosseto, in Tuscany. With a population of approximately 8700 inhabitants, Roccastrada is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Let's explore the territory
Roccastrada's location and borders
Before diving into the details, here are some facts about Roccastrada's geographical location. The municipality's territory extends over an area of almost 285 km², located between the Maremma Grossetana plain and the Grossetane Metalliferous Hills. Roccastrada borders the municipalities of Chiusdino and Monticiano (province of Siena) to the north, Civitella Paganico to the east, Campagnatico to the southeast, Grosseto to the south, Gavorrano and Massa Marittima to the west, and Montieri to the northwest.
The altitude of Roccastrada and the surrounding area
The altitude of Roccastrada's territory varies from 42 meters above sea level in Sticciano to 797 meters above sea level on Monte Alto. The peak of Sassoforte (787 meters above sea level) is just a few meters apart. Roccastrada's highest hamlet is Sassofortino (560 meters above sea level). It's also worth noting that the 43rd parallel passes through the southern edge of the town.
Roccastrada's climate
Roccastrada's climate is classified as zone E, with 2181 degree days for heating systems between October 15th and April 15th for up to 14 hours per day. Statistical data over the last thirty years show that the average annual temperature ranges from +12.8 °C in Roccatederighi (537 meters above sea level) to +15.2 °C in Ribolla (50 meters above sea level), while the average annual rainfall ranges from 839 mm in Roccastrada to 1108 mm in Torniella. The lowest values are generally recorded near the plain to the south of Fattoria di Monte Lattaia.
The history of Roccastrada
Now that we've explored the territory let's take a look at some historical facts about Roccastrada. The city was established during the Middle Ages atop a hill as a property of the Aldobrandeschi family. Later, after a series of battles, Roccastrada was conquered by the Republic of Siena in the 14th century. Following this, the nearby copper and silver mines were exploited, and Siena ruled the entire area until 1555 when Roccastrada and the surrounding area also came under control of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.
Conclusion
And that's it! I hope this brief overview of Roccastrada has been helpful in getting to know this wonderful municipality better. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by. There are many activities to do, such as visiting the San Niccolò church, Sassoforte Castle, and the Mine Museum. Additionally, you can't miss the opportunity to taste some of the typical dishes of Maremma's cuisine, such as pappa al pomodoro and stewed wild boar. Have fun!
